Saudi Arabia becomes a titular member of ILO’s Council
Saudi Arabia has been elected a member of the Board of Directors of the International Labor Organization within the Governmental Team for the session (2021-2024).
The elections took place on 14 June 2021, as part of the program of the 109th session of the International Labor Conference, held virtually from 3-19 June to determine the members of the organization’s board of directors every three years.
According to the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development, this election comes after the Kingdom demonstrated its ability during the previous period (2017-2020), exceptionally extended for an additional year due to the Corona pandemic, and its effective role during its candidacy for a titular seat for the periods (1998, 1985, 1982).
The ministry indicated that the Kingdom gained experience through its dealings with international labour issues. That enabled it to obtain the full support of the International Labour Organization member states to obtain this distinguished UN position with the organization.
On this occasion, the Minister of Human Resources and Social Development, Ahmed bin Sulaiman Al-Rajhi, said the election reflects the growing position and confidence Saudia Arabia enjoys regionally and internationally, especially in consolidating labour values and the organization member states’ recognition.
Since its accession in 1976, the Kingdom has had an effective and tangible role within the organization. That can be confirmed through the country’s annual participation in the conference bodies, from technical committees specialized in international labour standards, as a member of central bodies, such as the Board of Directors of the International Labor Office, and organizing budget.